JANUARY and February were the busiest two months in SARA history, as they responded to 17 separate incidents involving 710 volunteer-hours of operational activity, and they are holding an open evening later this month to garner further support.

Station Chairman Mervyn Fleming said: “On these operations, the men and women of the Beachley and Newport teams have worked with colleagues from all the other SARA stations, with police from Gwent and Gloucestershire, South Wales Search and Rescue Dogs Association, three coastguard teams, the police and the coastguard helicopters and RNLI Portishead.

“The start of this year has been unprecedented in the history of SARA. There does not appear to be any underlying cause, although we are appreciative that the police and other agencies recognise the professional standard which we bring to an operation.

“I am deeply grateful to the dedicated volunteer crew and search teams who often turn out at unsociable hours, and to their families and to the local community for supporting them in this.”

SARA is entirely manned by volunteers. An open evening takes place at Beachley Station, on Thursday, March 30 at 7.30pm, for anyone interested in supporting the organisation. To donate to SARA, visit www.justgiving.com/sara-rescue/donate.